For backpackers comparing European destinations, budget and experience are key. Here’s a balanced, data-driven look at Porto and Salzburg.

Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?

Porto generally offers a significantly lower daily budget for backpackers compared to Salzburg.

• Porto Estimated Daily Budget: €30-55. This typically breaks down to accommodation (€15-25), food (€10-20), and local transport (€5-10).
• Salzburg Estimated Daily Budget: €45-75. This often includes accommodation (€25-40), food (€15-25), and local transport (€5-10). Backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in many European cities, placing Porto well within the lower end and Salzburg on the higher end of this spectrum.

How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?

Hostel prices reflect the overall cost difference.

• Porto Hostel Costs: Expect to pay €15-25 per night for a dormitory bed in a well-rated hostel. Prices can fluctuate seasonally.
• Salzburg Hostel Costs: Dormitory beds in Salzburg typically range from €25-40 per night, reflecting its status as a more affluent city and popular tourist destination.

What Are the Food and Drink Costs?

Porto is known for its affordable and delicious cuisine, while Salzburg is pricier.

• Porto Food Costs: A casual meal or “Prato do Dia” (dish of the day) can be found for €7-12. Groceries are affordable, and a typical daily food budget could be €10-20 by utilizing local markets and smaller eateries.
• Salzburg Food Costs: Expect to pay €12-20 for a main course at a casual restaurant. Daily food costs often land between €15-25, requiring more reliance on supermarkets for budget travelers. Meals at local restaurants in Europe typically cost €8-15, with Salzburg skewing higher.

How Much Is Local Transportation?

Both cities are walkable, but public transport offers convenience.

• Porto Transport Costs: A single metro/bus ticket typically costs around €1.20-€2.00. A daily pass might be €5-7, making a daily transport budget of €5-8 realistic if using public transit regularly.
• Salzburg Transport Costs: Single bus tickets usually cost €2.00-€3.00. A 24-hour public transport ticket might be €6-8, leading to an estimated daily transport budget of €5-10, especially if exploring outside the city center.

When Are Prices Lowest Seasonally?

For both cities, spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) typically offer lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds than the peak summer months (June-August). Winter can also be budget-friendly, though some attractions might have reduced hours.

Are There Ways to Save Money?

Yes. Walking is free in both cities, allowing exploration of historic centers. Look for free walking tours. Utilize parks and free entry museums where available. Tools like AllInMap can help identify free public amenities.